Jagran correspondent, Siddharthnagar. There was dense fog from night till morning. By 11 am on Saturday it became difficult to see at a distance.
Severe cold and cold winds made life miserable. The sun was visible for a few moments at around 2 pm, but there was no respite from the cold. The chill was so severe that there was little to no activity in the markets and people were forced to hide in their homes.
A huge drop in temperature was recorded in the last 24 hours. The maximum temperature on Saturday was 16.1 and minimum 8.4 degrees Celsius, while on Friday it was 19.4 and 7.4 degrees Celsius respectively. Traffic on the roads was affected due to dense fog during night and morning.
Fewer vehicles passed and those that did, had their lights burning. According to the Meteorological Department, due to the current seasonal effect, the weather is likely to remain dry till Sunday. After this, some relief from the cold is expected due to reduction in the intensity of fog and slight increase in temperature.
However, administrative arrangements to protect against cold seem inadequate. Bonfires are burning at some places in Nagar Panchayat areas, but the situation is very bad in rural areas. Blanket distribution has also been limited.
Doctor Dr. Aftab Alam says that carelessness during cold weather can cause serious health problems. He advised to keep the body completely covered to protect from cold and avoid direct contact with cold air in the morning and evening.
Especially the elderly, children and already sick people should be more careful. He said that drinking lukewarm water is beneficial during winter and one should avoid drinking cold water.
Eat a balanced and nutritious diet, which includes green vegetables, pulses and fruits, so that the body's immunity remains intact. Do morning walk or exercise only after the sun rises. It is necessary to consult a doctor in case of cough, cold, fever or difficulty in breathing.
The prevailing weather in the district is proving favorable for wheat crop. This time wheat has been cultivated in 2.11 lakh hectares.
According to agricultural experts, 20 to 23 degree Celsius temperature is suitable for germination of wheat. At present the average temperature of the district remains around 16 to 17 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for crop growth.
Bonfires are not burning in rural areas. People say that the entire December passed, but no arrangements were made for relief from the cold. Sub-Collector Kunal has given instructions to the concerned accountants to light the bonfire.